Pine, CO — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Jefferson County, Colorado gardeners: here's your June plan
A quick June briefing for Jefferson County, Colorado gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
Move alpine strawberries, aronia, and blackberries into the garden
Your last frost (May 14) has passed. These warm-season crops can handle outdoor soil now.
-
Begin indoor sowing: cucumber, kale, and lettuce
These need a head start before your last frost (May 14). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Start harvesting lettuce, radish, and anemones
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
Before July arrives, get these ready
- Starting indoors: basil, peppers, and pole beans
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Pine gardens in a dry climate (only 19" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
Soils trend Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Pine averages 24.4 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 14
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 26
📅 Growing Season
135 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 18.6" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 8.1 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
24.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Pine
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Pine's 19" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.8 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.3 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| May | 2.6 in | 8 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Jun | 1.8 in | 5 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Jul | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Aug | 2.4 in | 6 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Sep | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Oct | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Nov | 1.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 22.7 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Pine Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Jun 10 | Oct 16 | 128 days |
| Cautious | May 25 | Oct 7 | 135 days |
| Average year | May 14 | Sep 26 | 135 days |
| Optimistic | May 3 | Sep 20 | 140 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 24 | Sep 8 | 137 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±46 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 3.7 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Jefferson County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Jefferson County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Jefferson County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Jefferson County Colorado State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 970-491-6281
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Jefferson County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Jefferson County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Jefferson County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Jefferson County CO" or "garden center Jefferson County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Jefferson County CO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Jefferson County Gardeners" or "Colorado Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Pine
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Pine's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.9 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.5 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 10.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 10.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Pine
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Pine's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jul through Aug.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
4 months
Short season — insulate pile or use indoor vermicomposting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 10°F | 15°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 8°F | 15°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 16°F | 21°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 32°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 43°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 56°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 61°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 63°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 54°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 41°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 26°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 15°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Pine
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Pine's climate determines whether you can mostly "plant and see" or whether you need a pest-management routine from the first seedling.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Pine
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: You don't need a farm to use cover crops. A 4x8 raised bed accepts cover crops just as well as a half-acre. Pine's climate determines the calendar; the principle is universal.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 22 | Jul 18 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 15 | Jul 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 13 | Jul 25 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 25 | Sep 12 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Jul 22 | Apr 30 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 16 | Apr 30 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 3 | Apr 30 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 13 | Apr 30 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 1 | Apr 23 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 24 | Apr 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Pine
Quick context: Pollinators avoid windy days. Pine's 8.1 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 2,443 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting in Pine
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Pine, that's your 19" times your roof.
Annual Collection
11,313 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Limited
Your state has quantity limits on rainwater collection — check local regulations before installing large systems.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Apr, May, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Nov, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 22.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,313 gallons annually
- Check CO state regulations — rainwater harvesting has quantity limits
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Pine
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Pine.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 18 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Sep 3 – Oct 29 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 21 | — | — | Aug 20 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 18 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | May 28 – Jun 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 18 | Oct 1 – Nov 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 18 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 21 | — | — | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 5 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 8 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 15 | Nov 14 – Feb 27 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 28 | — | Oct 1 – Dec 10 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 5 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Sep 10 – Oct 15 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Sep 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 21 | — | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Aug 13 – Oct 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Sep 10 – Nov 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Nov 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 18 | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 5 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 15 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 15 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 18 | May 28 – Jun 18 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 18 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 18 | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 26 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 21 | — | — | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Sep 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 28 | — | Sep 17 – Nov 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 18 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 18 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Pine
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Pine.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | Sep 3 – Dec 17 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 4 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 4 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 4 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 8 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | Sep 3 – Dec 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Pine
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Pine.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 26 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Aug 20 – Oct 22 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 26 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 5 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 26 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 21 | — | Sep 24 – Dec 3 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Pine
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Pine.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 26 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 15 | Sep 12 – Oct 10 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 16 | — | May 14 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 12 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 14 | Aug 15 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 5 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 29 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 12 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 19 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 12 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 12 | May 28 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 12 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 19 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 16 | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 15 | Jul 4 – Jul 25 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 15 | Jul 11 – Aug 1 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 16 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 19 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 12 | — | May 21 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 19 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 17 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 12 | May 28 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 26 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 12 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 26 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Dec 3 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 5 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 29 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 14 | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 12 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 5 | — | May 21 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 19 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 15 | Aug 1 – Aug 22 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 5 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 5 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 19 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 5 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 5 | — | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 5 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 12 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 17 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 12 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 2 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 15 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 16 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 5 | — | May 14 | Aug 1 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 19 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 5 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 12 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 22 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Apr 2 | — | May 14 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Mar 5 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 19 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 12 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 12 | — | May 21 | — | Sep 10 – Nov 26 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 5 | Apr 23 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 23 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 26 | Apr 23 | May 14 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 15 | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 5 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 5 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 12 | May 14 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 19 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 16 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 5 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Pine
ZIP Codes in Pine
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Jefferson County.
Your Jefferson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jefferson County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log